§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, representing the House of Commons Commission, what training opportunities are provided by the House for those employed(a) by and (b) in the House of Commons.
§ Mr. BeithI can reply only for those staff employed by the House. For them training is available either on the job or in external organisations, such as the Civil Service college, the Industrial Society and various academic institutions. Training falls into four broad categories: induction courses; professional training; career development; and educational courses.
Responsibility for the identification and organisation of relevant courses lies in the main with individual departmental training officers who advise their own management and staff of available courses. Certain courses of common interest such as induction and staff reporting and appraisal are, however, organised centrally by the Establishments Office.
Staff undertaking relevant educational courses are assisted financially towards the cost of the course, books, and examination fees and, where necessary, are allowed time off and special leave with pay.